Wagering 101: Learn to play the races

There's no one right way to play the races. Every player has an angle, which tells you no one way is foolproof. But even as a casual player, you'll stand a better chance of winning if you know how to size up the horses.

The links below will help you get in the game.

We recently asked our Facebook fans this question: "If a friend who knows nothing about handicapping asked you for one key insight from the PPs--if you could give only one angle--what would it be?"

Here are their answers:

Class figure
Jockey & trainer: individual performance, performance together, or changes -- "At Turfway trainers are the key . . . Then I look at the class droppers and start positions. If I was going to bet from one thing on the program....trainer!!! They know the horses, jockeys, and track better then anyone." -- Michael
Consistency; for example, finishing in the money with maidens
"Horse for course"--proven record on the specific track
Distance specialist--proven at the distance
Drop in class; for example, from maiden special to maiden claiming
Beyer Speed Figure
Running style--"My handicapping has improved tremendously since I started paying closer attention to how many stalkers, closers, and front runners are in the race and how the pace is set to be affected by these. SEE KY DERBY!!" -- Robby

And some comments:

"Never bet a maiden claiming and go with your gut" -- Scott
"If [jockey/trainer combination] fails, don't ignore the color of the silks." -- Jill, with a smiley
"Just pick a name that has some meaning . . . LOL." -- Tanya

Check out Letter to a New Horse Player -- advice from turf writers and others

Ready for Wagering 201? Get more info from Today's Racing Digest.